Ice cream covers

ABSTRACT

A number of covers are described which are particularly well adapted to protect against freezer burn of ice cream. One such cover can protect an exposed surface of a food material, such as ice cream, where the food material is positioned in a container having a wall with an inner surface. The cover includes a rim and a membrane connected to the rim wherein the membrane is adapted to contact the exposed surface of the food material. The cover may also include at least one tab connected to the rim. The rim of the cover may further include a ridge and a curtain, and the membrane may be connected to the curtain. The cover can be positioned in the container so that the rim is biased against the inner surface of the wall thus restricting the passage of air. The membrane may be flexible and may be composed of a flexible material such as polymers, rubbers, and silicone rubbers. As the membrane makes contact with the exposed surface of the ice cream, the rim may be pulled away from its biased position against the inner surface of the wall in order to burp air away from the exposed surface of the ice cream.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to lids and containers. More particularly, the invention relates to flexible covers and/or lids for use with containers such as ice cream or dairy cartons.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Ice cream consumers are perhaps universally familiar with the following shortcoming in current ice cream packaging methods. Ice cream for the consumer market is often packaged in a round or rectangular carton. Taking the example of a round carton as a first example, when the carton is first opened (when the lid is removed from the carton), the exposed surface of the ice cream is fresh and appealing. The ice cream consumer typically spoons out a portion of the ice cream as a first serving from the carton, and the consumer leaves a certain amount of ice cream remaining in the carton. The consumer typically replaces the original lid on the ice cream carton and puts the carton in a freezer for storage. It is noted that when the original lid is replaced on the carton, after a portion of the ice cream has been removed from the carton, an air space is present between the newly exposed surface of the ice cream and the interior of the lid.

When, after a period of time, the consumer takes out the previously stored ice cream carton in order to enjoy a further serving of ice cream, he or she is met with the following unappealing, unattractive, and less enjoyable sight. The exposed surface of the ice cream now has a layer of ice crystals formed on it. Furthermore the layer of ice cream at and near the exposed surface has somewhat dried out and hardened, thereby losing the creamy texture and consistency which is such an integral part of the enjoyment of fresh ice cream. Depending on the time elapsed between storage and retrieval of the ice cream carton, the degree of ice crystal formation and drying will be more or less significant. Odors from other foods stored in proximity with the ice cream may have permeated the ice cream thereby resulting in odor contamination. One or more of these negative effects may be popularly referred to as “freezer burn”. In addition to being visually unattractive, the stored ice cream has thus become less tasteful and flavorful compared to fresh ice cream from a newly opened carton.

This unfortunate situation arises regardless of the shape or size of ice cream carton. For example the round gallon, half gallon, quart-sized and pint-sized ice cream containers will all experience a similar phenomenon of icing and drying on the exposed ice cream surface. Rectangular and square ice cream containers are also subject to the same experience. The typical rectangular cartons in popular usage may have a rectangular top lid which can be removed and replaced on the carton structure in a manner similar to round containers. Alternatively, rectangular-shaped cartons may have closable flaps which are an integral part of the carton structure. In either case, after storage of the ice cream carton such that a layer of ice cream is exposed to air, the exposed surface of ice cream will experience the formation of ice crystals thereon, as well as the other aforementioned detriments such as drying, hardening, and odor contamination.

Heretofore, the discussion has focused on ice cream. However, a related shortcoming also occurs in other food storage methods. A few are now mentioned. Food materials such as yogurt, cottage cheese, butter (and butter substitutes), and sour cream are often packaged in reusable containers. The container is reusable in that the consumer can remove a first portion of the food material from the container, leave a portion of material in the container, reclose the container, and store the container. Later, the consumer can retrieve the container from a refrigerator or other storage place, reopen the container, and access the remaining food material. It often occurs that a layer of mold may grow on an exposed surface of the yogurt, cottage cheese or sour cream. Further, exposure to air may also dry out, harden, and decrease the flavor of the product. The embodiments of the invention disclosed herein teach principles which are equally effective in overcoming food storage problems associated with these food materials.

Hence there has been identified a need to provide an improved packaging and method of storing food materials, ice cream particularly. It is desired that the improved packaging provide that ice cream remains fresh and appealing during storage. It is further desired that the improved packaging and storage method prevent the formation of ice crystals on ice cream and/or avoid drying of ice cream and/or avoid hardening of ice cream and/or avoid odor contamination of ice cream. It would further be desired that an improved packaging and storage method be adaptable and usable with presently used ice cream containers, even including containers shaped differently from those presently used. The present invention addresses one or more of these needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, and by way of example only, there is provided a cover to protect the exposed surface of a food material, such as ice cream, which is positioned in a container having a wall with an inner surface. The cover includes a rim and a membrane connected to the rim wherein the membrane is adapted to contact the exposed surface of the food material. The cover may also include at least one tab connected to the rim. The rim of the cover may further include a ridge and a curtain, and the membrane may be connected to the curtain. The cover can be positioned in the container so that the rim is biased against the inner surface of the wall thus restricting the passage of air. The membrane may be flexible and may be composed of a flexible material such as polymers, rubbers, and silicone rubbers.

In a further embodiment, also by way of example only, there is provided a stored food product that includes a container defining a food storage area, the container further comprising a wall with an inner surface; a food material disposed in the food storage area, the food material further defining an exposed surface; a cover comprising a rim and a membrane connected to the cover, the cover disposed within the food storage area; wherein the rim is biased against the inner surface; and wherein the membrane contacts the exposed surface. The cover in the stored food product may also include at least one tab positioned thereon. The rim of the stored food product may define a ridge and a curtain so that the membrane is connected to the curtain. The cover may be positioned so that the ridge is biased against the inner surface of the container so as to restrict the flow of air.

In still a further embodiment, and still by way of example only, there is provided a method for covering an exposed surface of a food material stored in a container having an opening and a wall with an inner surface. The method includes the steps of: providing a cover having a rim and a membrane connected to the rim; positioning the rim inside the opening of the cover; contacting the rim with the inner surface of the container so as to provide an air seal; and contacting the membrane with the exposed surface of food material so as to form a covered surface. The method can also include the steps of compressing the rim of the cover and relaxing the rim of the cover. The step of providing a cover having a rim and a membrane connected to the rim may further include the step of providing a cover having a rim and a membrane and at least one tab connected to the rim, and additionally include the step of pulling the tab so as to allow air to pass the air seal between the rim and the inner surface.

Other independent features and advantages of the ice cream covers will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a partial cut away view of a prior art food container with a lid;

FIG. 2 is a partial cut away view of a prior art food container having no lid;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a sealing panel, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a partial cutaway view of a sealing panel disposed in a food container, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a further partial cutaway view of a sealing panel disposed in a food container, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an ice cream cover, according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a partial cut away view of an ice cream cover disposed in an ice cream carton, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a side elevation view of a flexible lid, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a flexible lid, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 10 is a partial cutaway view of a flexible lid disposed in an ice cream carton, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The following detailed description of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the invention or the application and uses of the invention. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background of the invention or the following detailed description of the invention. Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

Referring now to FIG. 1 there is illustrated a typical prior art container 10 used for storing food materials such as ice cream, yogurt, cottage cheese, butter (and butter substitutes), sour cream, and the like. Container 10 is generally cylindrical or nearly cylindrical (frustoconical) in overall shape. Container 10 defines an interior space or food storage area 11. A food material 12, such as ice cream, is disposed within food storage area 11. When food material 12 is prepared and packaged within container during manufacturing and/or processing, lid 13 is placed to cover opening (not shown in FIG. 1) of container 10. FIG. 2 illustrates container 10 with lid 13 removed. FIG. 2 thus illustrates further features of container 10 including upper lip 14 and opening 15. Container 10 further includes wall 16, and wall 16 defines inner surface 17 and outer surface 18.

Still referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, it is noted that ice cream 12 only partially fills food storage area 11. Thus the illustrations in FIGS. 1 and 2 relate to that situation in which a consumer has partially eaten food material or ice cream 12; the remaining uneaten ice cream 12 remains in container 10 to be stored until the consumer desires to partake again. In this situation, air space 19 exists within food storage area 11, below lid 13 in an area generally above exposed surface 20 of ice cream 12. Exposed surface 20 of ice cream 12 is depicted as somewhat jagged or irregular, which corresponds to the typical situation in which a consumer haphazardly spoons out the ice cream in his zest to fill his bowl. This jagged exposed surface 20 increases the area of ice cream 12 that is exposed to air space 19, and this exposed surface 20 in contact with air space 19 contributes to the phenomenon of hardening, desiccation, crystallization, and the loss of flavor as explained above.

It is noted that other prior art containers take different shapes such as cubes and rectangular shaped containers. However, with these shapes the consumer's typical consumption and storage of ice cream also results in an air space next to an exposed surface of ice cream. And thus the same phenomenon of hardening, etc. occurs with those containers as was described with respect to the cylindrical-type container. Indeed this phenomenon would occur when, during storage air contacts an exposed surface, even with container shapes, such as triangular or hexagonal shapes, which are not currently in general usage.

Referring now to FIG. 3 there is illustrated a first embodiment of a new flexible cover 30 for use with prior art containers 10. Flexible cover 30 comprises a sealing panel 32. Sealing panel 32 defines an upper surface 33, lower surface 34, and edge 35. Optionally, flexible cover 30 may include handles 37, which are connected to some part of flexible cover 30, such as upper surface 33.

Sealing panel 32 may comprise different embodiments. In one embodiment, sealing panel 32 comprises a substantially rigid material. Alternatively, sealing panel 32 may comprise a semi-rigid material such as, by way of non-limiting example, a thickened rubber or silicone. In a further embodiment, sealing panel 32 may comprise a flexible material. It is preferred, however, that sealing panel 32 be configured so that sealing panel 32 takes a contour shape that is substantially similar to a cross-sectional shape of food storage area 11. For example, sealing panel 32 may be substantially circular in contour shape to match the substantially circular cross-section of a cylindrical or frustoconical ice cream container 10. Alternatively, sealing panel 32 may be substantially square or rectangular in contour shape so as to match the substantially square or rectangular cross-section of an ice cream carton. The objective, in a preferred embodiment, is to configure sealing panel 32 so that, when disposed within food storage area 11, edge 35 of sealing panel 32 comes into proximity with inner surface 17 of wall 16 of container 10, thereby limiting passage of air to exposed surface 20. In other embodiments, it is acceptable to position sealing panel 32 so that an edge does not come into proximity with inner surface 17. Additionally, while edge 35 is illustrated as flat, it may take other profiles such as, for example, bull nosed or rounded.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 4, there is illustrated an embodiment of how sealing panel 32 may be brought into contact with an exposed surface 20 of ice cream 12, thereby helping to protect the food material. FIG. 2 illustrates a partial cut away view of a food material, ice cream 12, after a consumer has completed spooning out a portion of ice cream 12. Exposed surface 20 is present, and is rather uneven. An air space 19 is present within food storage area 11 and above exposed surface 20. As illustrated in FIG. 1, if the original container lid 13 were replaced on the ice cream carton 10, this air space 20 would remain in contact with exposed surface 20. The result from the presence of air space 19 in contact with exposed surface 20 would be ice crystals forming on exposed surface 20, freezer burn, drying, hardening, odor contamination, and a general ruination of at least a portion of the ice cream 12.

In operation, sealing panel 32 is brought into contact with exposed surface 20, as illustrated in FIG. 4. In those embodiments where sealing panel 32 is semi-rigid or flexible, the sealing panel 32 and the ice cream exposed surface 20 can mutually conform to one another. The result is illustrated in FIG. 4. What was previously a rather uneven exposed surface 20 (as previously shown in FIG. 2) has now transformed into a more gently curving covered surface 41. Covered surface 41 results from the consumer/operator/user gently pushing (as by hand, with a spoon, or using a similar kitchen utensil) sealing panel 32 against exposed surface 20. The operator attempts to contact sealing panel 32 with exposed surface 20 so as to substantially remove the presence of air or air pockets therebetween. The pushing squeezes out the air. As a result of this pushing, exposed surface 20 assumes the gentler curvature of covered surface 41 as the malleable ice cream 12 conforms to lower surface 34 of sealing panel 32. Similarly, the flexibility present in sealing panel 32 allows it to conform somewhat to the ice cream exposed surface 20. It is generally preferred to begin the pushing at a center position and then move the pushing in a radial direction outward, toward wall 16, so as to move air pockets away from the center and toward wall 16 where they can escape.

The ice cream 12 in FIG. 4 now has a covered surface 41 of ice cream rather than an exposed surface 20 as previously shown in FIG. 2. In this manner the ice cream 12, including ice cream at or near covered surface 41, is substantially protected against exposure to air. Consequently the ice cream 12 does not suffer, in any significant way, the undesirable effects of drying, hardening, odor contamination, or forming ice crystals. And compared to the effects on ice cream exposed to air during storage, the ice cream 12 that is protected by sealing panel 32 is significantly improved in quality, appeal, flavor, and attractiveness.

In the case as illustrated in FIG. 4, where sealing panel 32 has been placed over ice cream 12, the consumer also has the additional option of replacing the original lid 13 over opening 15 of container 10. Thus, sealing panel 32 preferably presents a sufficiently low profile such that after the removal of some modest of amount of ice cream 12, for example an amount equivalent to a single serving portion, sealing panel 32 can be placed over exposed surface 20 in a manner that would allow lid 13 to be replaced. In such a low profile embodiment, handles 37 are preferably flexible so that they may “lay down” so as to rest in proximity to upper surface 33 of sealing panel 32.

It will here be appreciated by those skilled in the art that wall 16 of certain container brands, particularly those of a near-cylindrical shape, may be sloped so that the overall geometric shape of container 10 is properly described as frustoconical. The significance of the slope in the cylindrical wall 16 is that the cross-sectional area at one point of the wall 16, for example near to lip 14, will not perfectly match the cross-sectional area at a different point of the wall 16, for example near to bottom 22 of container 10. Thus, a potential disadvantage of a substantially rigid sealing panel 32 is that it becomes difficult for sealing panel 32 to move below that point at which edge 35 of sealing panel 32 makes contact with inner surface 17 of wall 16. Conversely, a potential advantage of a semi-rigid or flexible sealing panel 32 is that such a sealing panel 32 can be more readily moved and adjusted so as to move into proximity with inner surface 17 of wall 16 regardless of vertical position of exposed surface 20. Thus, in practice, a substantially rigid sealing panel 32 may be selected for use with substantially cylindrical containers 10 whereas a semi-rigid or flexible sealing panel 32 may be selected for use with frustoconical containers 10.

Referring now to FIG. 5, there is illustrated an embodiment where sealing panel 32 has been adapted to cover ice cream 12 at a vertical position where the cross sectional area of container 10 is less than the area of sealing panel 32. In this embodiment, the flexible nature of sealing panel 32 has adapted so that a portion of sealing panel 32 near to edge 35 “curls up” against inner surface 17 of wall 16. Lower surface 34 of sealing panel 32 continues to make contact with ice cream so as to form a covered surface 41. However, a portion of lower surface 34, near edge 35, is not required to form covered surface 41, and this unneeded portion of lower surface 34 makes contact with inner surface 17 in order to further block air from reaching ice cream 12.

When an ice cream consumer desires to access the stored ice cream 12 (so as to eat more of the same), flexible cover 30 may be removed as follows. A consumer/user may grasp sealing panel 32, preferably near edge 35, and pull in an upward direction. The upward pull on edge 35 will act to detach sealing panel 32 from covered surface 41 of ice cream 12. Further pulling of sealing panel 32 completely removes sealing panel 32 from ice cream 12. In those embodiments having a handle 37, handle 37 (or multiple handles) is/are preferably placed near to edge 35 on upper surface 33 of sealing panel 32. Thus the consumer/user can grasp handle 37 and pull in an upward direction. This acts to transmit an upward pulling force onto sealing panel 32 near edge 35 and thus removes sealing panel 32 from ice cream 12 in similar fashion. If desired, lower surface 34 of sealing panel 32 can be configured with features such as ridges, bumps, etc. that facilitate removal of sealing panel 32.

Referring now to FIG. 6 there is illustrated a further embodiment of an ice cream cover according to the present invention. Ice cream cover 100 comprises rim 110 and membrane 120. Optionally, cover 100 includes one or more tabs 130. Further details of ice cream cover 100 are now explained.

Rim 110 is preferably sized and shaped so as to adapt to inner surface 17 of container 10, as further explained herein. Thus, rim 110 can be generally cylindrical, rectangular, or other shaped, depending on the cross sectional shape of container 10 to which cover 100 would be applied. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, rim 110 includes ridge 111 and curtain 112. In the illustrated approximately circular embodiment, in its unflexed condition, ridge 111 has a diameter that is preferably slightly greater than the diameter of curtain 112. Correspondingly in a rectangular embodiment, ridge 111 would provide a length and width dimension that is slightly greater than the length and width dimension for curtain 112. Ridge 111 is generally rounded or bullnosed in profile, but ridge 111 can take other configurations such as, but not limited to being flat or pointed. Curtain 112 is connected to ridge 111, and extends in a generally downward direction from ridge 111. Rim 110 is preferably composed of a firm but flexible material or materials such as silicone rubber, rubber, plastics, polymers or other synthetic or natural equivalents.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the combined shape of ridge 111 and curtain 112 allows for an improved air seal against wall 16. Preferably, the diameter or outer dimension of ridge 111 is set slightly greater than the inner diameter (or other dimension) of wall 16. Thus, when a consumer/user pushes cover 100 into opening 15 of container 10, ridge 111 will come into contact with lip 14 of container. Curtain 112, however, preferably can pass through opening without significant interference with lip 14. Ridge 111 is formed of a material that allows ridge 111 to yield when ridge 111 contacts lip 14 so that rim 110 passes past lip 14 and downward into food storage area 11. Further, the preferred manner in which ridge 111 is connected to curtain 112 allows ridge 111 to yield by slightly rolling back in or rolling inwardly to a degree sufficient to allow the passage of rim 110 through opening 15. Additionally rim 110 could be described as flexing inwardly to a degree sufficient to allow passage. Preferably, rim 110 is sized so that, having flexed in order to enter into food storage area 11, the contact between rim 110 and inner surface 17 does not significantly interfere with the sliding of rim 110 to a desired vertical position with respect to wall. Additionally, it is contemplated that a consumer/user can fit rim 110 within opening 15 by manual manipulations such as tilting rim 110 and/or presqueezing rim 110 by hand force prior to inserting it into opening 15.

Rim 110 is preferably a firm, but also flexible structure. The firmness of rim 110 allows it, when placed within container 10, to hold its position against inner surface 17. Further, this firmness allows rim 110 to provide an air seal against inner surface 17 that restricts the flow of air past rim 110 toward ice cream 12. However, rim 110 also includes a degree of flexibility so that rim 110 can be squeezed, compressed, and manipulated in order to be placed in the desired position. As is known in the art, the desired degree of firmness and flexibility can be achieved by selecting a dimension (e.g. thickness and width or diameter) of rim 110 for a given material. Various silicone rubbers, for example, provide an acceptable material that can be cured so as to provide the desired qualities of firmness and flexibility.

As stated, the preferred embodiment of cover 100 includes rim 110 having both a ridge 111 feature and curtain 112 feature. However, in other embodiments it is possible to provide a cover 100 that does not include curtain 112. In such an embodiment rim 110 comprises a structure such as ridge 111, or a structure comparable to ridge 111 such as a ring structure or tube structure. Membrane 120 may attach directly to ridge 111 or other such comparable structure.

In a preferred embodiment, membrane 120 is attached to rim 110. Where rim 110 includes curtain 112, membrane 120 is preferably attached to a lower portion of curtain 112; however in other embodiments membrane 120 can attach to ridge 111. Membrane 120 may itself take different forms or embodiments. In the preferred embodiment of FIGS. 6 and 7 membrane 120 comprises a flexible material. It is possible, in other embodiments, that membrane 120 comprise a rigid or semi-flexible material. However, the preferred flexibility of membrane 120 allows membrane 120 to easily adapt to contours of the ice cream 12 or other food product.

Membrane 120 may be thin or film-like. Alternatively, membrane 120 may be thicker. In a still further alternative embodiment, membrane 120 may comprise a chamber or balloon-like cavity in which a gel-like material is disposed. Preferably, membrane 120 is more pliable and flexible than rim 110.

In a preferred embodiment, cover 100 also comprises at least one tab 130, and more preferably, comprises a pair of tabs 130 set at generally opposite positions on an inner portion of rim 110. Tab 130 may comprise any kind of structure that allows an exertion of force so as to pull rim 110 away from a container wall. For example, in addition to the illustrated form of tab 130, it may also comprise a knob, handle, grasp or loop. In a preferred embodiment, tabs 130 are affixed to rim 110.

Referring now to FIG. 7 there is illustrated an embodiment of a flexible cover 100 disposed within container 10 so as to cover a portion of ice cream 12. The explanation of FIG. 7 will further illustrate the function, operation, and advantages of cover 100. In the preferred embodiment, membrane 120 and curtain 112 can pass through opening 15 of container 10. The consumer/user can manipulate rim 110 in order to allow rim 110 to pass through opening 15. As shown in FIG. 7, the consumer/user has pushed rim 110 into food storage area 11 until membrane 120 has made contact with exposed surface 20 of ice cream 12. In a preferred method, the consumer/user initially allows membrane 120 to naturally settle over exposed surface 20 as by gravity, and the consumer/user then manipulates or pushes membrane 120, from above, against exposed surface 20 in order to force out as much air as possible. A further feature of cover 100 can here be used to effect. The consumer/user may, as needed, pull on one or more of tabs 130, and by so doing, pull a portion of rim 110 away from inner surface 17. By doing this action, air that was previously caught below rim 110 is allowed to escape to a position above rim 110 and away from ice cream 12. This action is then a form of air burping as is known in the art of food storage. When the consumer/user releases his or her pull on tab 130, rim 110 is allowed to return to its normally biased position against inner surface 17 and thus rim 110 provides an air seal to restrict air passage. The consumer/user can perform this operation of pushing membrane 120 against exposed surface 20 while also burping air away from exposed surface 20 multiple times, as many times as needed to evacuate a desired amount of air away from exposed surface 20. In performing the burping action, it is generally preferred that the consumer/user begin pushing membrane 120 against exposed surface 20 from a center position and then work the pushing action to an outer radial position (closer to wall 16) so as to move air pockets away from the center position toward wall 16 where the air pockets can escape past rim 110. In a manner similar to the previously described embodiment, membrane 120 now forms a covered surface 41 with exposed surface 20 of ice cream 12 thereby reducing or substantially reducing the contact of air with the stored ice cream 12. As also shown in FIG. 7, it is further noted that membrane 120 may additionally contact inner surface 17 of wall 16 and thereby reduce the presence of air in that area.

Still referring to FIG. 7, a further advantage of curtain 112 is now described. Curtain 112, which forms a flexible but also somewhat rigid structure, can now be pushed in a downward direction. The firmness of curtain 112 allows it to press in the direction of the crease where ice cream 12 meets inner surface 17. Thus curtain 112 provides a structure which allows for a minimal air space between ridge 111 and ice cream 112.

An additional feature of cover 100, in one embodiment, is the absence of an interfering structure that would prevent the movement of rim 110 to a position that is lower in relation to membrane 120. Ice cream 12 may be present in the form of a mound that is generally centered in container 10; ice cream 12 at the center of container 10 is at a relatively higher position than ice cream 12 near to wall 16. In such an example, as cover 100 is lowered into food storage area 11, membrane 120 makes contact with ice cream 12 before rim 110 makes contact with ice cream 12. However, the absence of structure in the center of rim 110 allows all or part of membrane 120 to rise above rim 110 as membrane 120 generally conforms to exposed surface 20 of ice cream 12.

It should be noted that the embodiment where rim 110 is generally hollow in the middle, is only a preferred embodiment, and other embodiments (not illustrated) may include reinforcing structures connected to rim 110 or centered in rim 110. For example, it is contemplated that a sheet-like structure, which may or may not provide a structural support to rim 110, positioned so as to span (or partially span) the area defined by rim 110 may include a surface on which to display advertising materials such as the logos of ice cream producers and ice cream brands. Such a sheet-like structure may comprise a polymer, rubber, or plastic material, which being flexible bends with rim 110, and which can receive a printing thereon.

In a further embodiment rim 110 may include a supporting wire or spring like material which functions to add springiness to rim 110. In one embodiment a spring-like wire is disposed within the structure of ridge 111, and such a structure helps to bias ridge 111 against inner surface 17 of container 10. Such a wire or spring-like structure may also be positioned exterior to rim 110.

Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 9 there is shown still a further embodiment of a flexible lid. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, flexible lid 60 comprises a lip seal 61, flexible connector 62, and covering panel 63. Flexible lid 60 is configured so that it may be disposed on a food container such as an ice cream carton 10 as shown in FIG. 1.

In operation flexible lid 60 affixes to container 10 by affixing lip seal 61 to upper lip 14 of container 10. It is preferred to dimension lip seal 61 so that it provides a near air tight seal of opening 15 of container 10. A near air tight seal is a seal that is approximately equivalent to the degree of air sealing provided by the original carton lid 13 affixed to container 10. Other degrees of sealing may also be provided.

Flexible connector 62 allows movement of covering panel 63 relative to upper lip14. Stated in another way, flexible connector 62 allows for vertical movement of covering panel 63 assuming the standard configuration of container 10 where wall 16 runs in a generally vertical direction. The movement of covering panel 63 is also such that covering panel 63 can move into food storage area 11. For example, if a portion of stored food 12, such as ice cream, is positioned in food storage area 11 such that the ice cream defines an exposed surface 20, covering panel 63 can descend sufficiently within food storage area 11 so as to make contact with exposed surface 20.

Flexible connector 62 allows movement of covering panel 63 through any of several known methods including, by way of non-limiting example, elastic/stretchable materials, folded structures, telescoping structures, and accordion structures. Flexible connector 62 is preferably impervious to air and provides a continuous air seal extending from lip seal 61 to covering panel 63. In other embodiments, flexible connector 62 need not restrict air flow therethrough.

In a preferred embodiment show in FIG. 10, flexible connector 62 closely engages with inner surface 17 of cylindrical wall 16. The close engagement of flexible connector 62 with inner surface 17 is preferably such that air pockets or air spaces therebetween are substantially minimized, though not completely eliminated. In this embodiment, the proximity or close engagement between flexible connector 62 and inner surface 17 minimizes the presence of air that can come into contact with the ice cream exposed surface 20. This minimal amount of air assists in preserving the freshness of the ice cream.

Still referring to FIG. 10, a method of using flexible lid 60 with a container 10 partially filled with food 12 is now described. Once the original lid 13 is removed from container 10, flexible lid 60 is affixed to upper lip 14 of container 10 so that lip seal 61 engages with lip 14. It may be desirable not to fully fit lip seal 61 to lip 14 in order to allow air to escape from air space 19 as further described. The consumer/operator may then manipulate covering panel 63 so that covering panel 63 descends into food storage area 11. Manipulation of covering panel 63 generally includes movement of flexible connector 62 whereby covering panel 63 is allowed to move vertically. The user would manipulate covering panel 63 so that lower surface of covering panel 63 makes contact with exposed surface 20 of ice cream 12. As with the sealing panel 30 embodiment, the user would gently force contact between covering panel 63 and exposed surface 20 until a covered surface 41 results. Optionally, a user could press flexible connector 62 against inner surface 17 of wall 16 in order to minimize the presence of air. And, as with embodiments previously described, covering panel is preferably flexible or semi-flexible in order to form a covered surface with ice cream.

It will be appreciated that components of the embodiments described herein such as flexible cover 30, cover 100, and flexible lid 60 comprise a material that is approved for use as a food storage and food handling material. Such materials include, by way of non-limiting example only, rubbers, polymers, and silicone rubbers. Paper products such as carton, cardboard, waxed papers and cardboards may also be used with the various embodiments. It will further be appreciated that the materials chosen to construct preferred embodiments such as flexible cover 30, cover 100, and flexible lid 60 comprise materials that may be hand washed or placed in a dishwasher along with other kitchen flatware and utensils. Thus, embodiments of lids and covers described herein may be reused with multiple cartons of ice cream.

It is further noted that materials for use with cover and lid embodiments must perform well at the low temperatures encountered in freezers. It is noted that sub-zero freezers have become increasingly popular, particularly with gourmets or consumers who have an appreciation for food quality. Thus, the materials of the ice cream protectors and covers described herein must perform well at low temperatures. To perform well means that the material should not significantly lose its quality of flexibility and pliability at low temperatures or after repeated temperature cycles between low and high temperature.

With respect to the geometric shape of the embodiments described herein, it is noted that embodiments were generally explained with reference to the highly popular circular container shape. However, none of the embodiments is limited to such a geometric shape, and the embodiments may take any shape, such as by way of non-limiting example only, square, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, polygonal, triangular, oval, etc.

Finally, the various embodiments described herein may be adapted so as to be delivered to the consumer with a new carton of ice cream. For example, any of the embodiments may be secured to an original ice cream carton, such as on the surface or underside of a lid. The consumer/user may detach the cover or other embodiment from the ice cream lid (or other part of the carton) and then use the item for storage purposes. Additionally, the embodiments may be integrated with, or adapted to, an ice cream lid. For example, a flexible cover 30 may be integrated into an ice cream lid during initial packaging and then break away so as to function as previously described. Similarly, a flexible lid 60 may be adapted so as function as a lid both for initial packaging and storage. Thus, it is also contemplated that the embodiments described herein may be single use items which are integral with the ice cream carton itself.

While the invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment or embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to a particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. 

1. An apparatus for covering an exposed surface of ice cream disposed in a container having a wall with an inner surface and wherein the wall defines a cross sectional area, the apparatus comprising: a sealing panel having an upper surface, a lower surface, and an edge contour; wherein the edge contour of the sealing panel is configured so as to closely approximate the cross sectional area of the container; and wherein the lower surface of the sealing panel is configured to contact the exposed surface of the ice cream so as to minimize the presence of air between the exposed surface and the lower surface.
 2. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the sealing panel comprises a flexible sealing panel.
 3. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the sealing panel comprises a semi-rigid sealing panel.
 4. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the sealing panel comprises a rigid sealing panel.
 5. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the sealing panel comprises a silicone rubber material.
 6. The apparatus according to claim 1 further comprising at least one handle disposed on the upper surface of the sealing panel.
 7. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the wall defines a variable cross sectional area that depends on vertical position and wherein the apparatus comprises a flexible sealing panel such that the lower surface of the flexible panel contacts the inner surface of the wall for those cross sectional areas that are less than the area of the edge contour of the sealing panel.
 8. A stored food product comprising: a container defining a food storage area, the container further comprising a wall with an inner surface; a food material disposed in the food storage area, the food material defining an exposed surface; a sealing panel disposed in the food storage area, the sealing panel having an upper surface, a lower surface, and an edge, wherein the lower surface of the sealing panel contacts the exposed surface of the food material so as to form a covered surface.
 9. The stored food product according to claim 8 wherein the container wall defines a cross section that is substantially circular, and wherein the sealing panel is substantially circular.
 10. The stored food product according to claim 8 wherein the container wall defines a cross section that is substantially rectangular, and wherein the sealing panel is substantially rectangular.
 11. The stored food product according to claim 8 wherein the sealing panel further comprises at least one handle.
 12. The stored food product according to claim 8 wherein the sealing panel is disposed in the food storage area such that the edge of the sealing panel engages the inner surface of the container wall.
 13. The stored food product according to claim 8 wherein the sealing panel is disposed in the food storage area such that the edge of the sealing panel does not contact the inner surface of the container wall.
 14. The stored food product according to claim 8 wherein the sealing panel comprises a flexible sealing panel.
 15. The stored food product according to claim 8 wherein the sealing panel comprises a silicone rubber.
 16. The stored food product according to claim 8 wherein the covered surface substantially protects the food material from exposure to air.
 17. The stored food product according to claim 8 wherein the lower surface of the sealing panel contacts the exposed surface of the food material and contacts the inner surface of the wall of the container.
 18. A device for covering an exposed surface of a food material positioned in a container with a wall having an inner surface comprising: a rim; and a membrane connected to the rim wherein the membrane is adapted to contact the exposed surface of the food material.
 19. The device according to claim 18 further comprising at least one tab connected to the rim.
 20. The device according to claim 18 wherein the rim comprises a ridge and a curtain, and wherein the membrane is connected to the curtain.
 21. The device according to claim 20 wherein the rim is biased against the inner surface of the wall.
 22. The device according to claim 20 further comprising a wire ring disposed within the rim.
 23. The device according to claim 18 wherein the membrane comprises a flexible polymeric material.
 24. A stored food product comprising a container defining a food storage area, the container further comprising a wall with an inner surface; a food material disposed in the food storage area, the food material further defining an exposed surface; a cover comprising a rim and a membrane connected to the cover, the cover disposed within the food storage area; wherein the rim is biased against the inner surface; and wherein the membrane contacts the exposed surface.
 25. The stored food product according to claim 24 wherein the cover further comprises at least one tab.
 26. The stored food product according to claim 24 wherein the rim further comprises a ridge and a curtain, and wherein the membrane is connected to the curtain.
 27. The stored food product according to claim 26 wherein the ridge is biased against the inner surface so as to restrict the flow of air.
 28. The stored food product according to claim 24 wherein the membrane contacts the exposed surface so as to form a covered surface.
 29. A method for covering an exposed surface of a food material stored in a container having an opening and a wall with an inner surface, the method comprising the steps of: providing a cover having a rim and a membrane connected to the rim; positioning the rim inside the opening of the cover; contacting the rim with the inner surface of the container so as to provide an air seal; and contacting the membrane with the exposed surface of food material so as to form a covered surface.
 30. The method according to claim 29 further comprising the steps of compressing the rim of the cover and relaxing the rim of the cover.
 31. The method according to claim 29 wherein the step of providing a cover having a rim and a membrane connected to the rim further comprises providing a cover having a rim and a membrane and at least one tab connected to the rim; and further comprising the step of pulling the tab so as to allow air to pass the air seal between the rim and the inner surface.
 32. A flexible lid for protecting ice cream disposed in an ice cream container wherein the container includes a wall having an inner surface defining a food storage area and wherein the ice cream has an exposed surface, the flexible lid comprising: a lip seal; a covering panel having an upper surface, a lower surface, and an edge; a flexible connector with two ends, a first end connected to the lip seal and the second end connected to the edge of the covering panel; wherein the lip seal provides an air seal with the container; wherein the flexible connector allows the covering panel to move vertically within the food storage area; and wherein the covering panel is configured so as to form a covered surface with the exposed surface of the ice cream.
 33. The flexible lid according to claim 32 wherein the flexible connector is configured so as to closely engage with the inner surface of wall.
 34. The flexible lid according to claim 32 further comprising at least one handle disposed on the upper surface of the covering panel.
 35. The flexible lid according to claim 32 wherein the flexible connector comprises an accordion structure. 